John 4:22

Authorized King James Version

Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὑμεῖς
Ye
you (as subjective of verb)
#2
προσκυνοῦμεν
worship
to fawn or crouch to, i.e., (literally or figuratively) prostrate oneself in homage (do reverence to, adore)
#3
what
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#4
οὐκ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#5
οἴδαμεν
we know
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
#6
ἡμεῖς
we
we (only used when emphatic)
#7
προσκυνοῦμεν
worship
to fawn or crouch to, i.e., (literally or figuratively) prostrate oneself in homage (do reverence to, adore)
#8
what
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#9
οἴδαμεν
we know
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
#10
ὅτι
for
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
σωτηρία
salvation
rescue or safety (physically or morally)
#13
ἐκ
of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#14
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
Ἰουδαίων
the Jews
judaean, i.e., belonging to jehudah
#16
ἐστίν
is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

Analysis

Within the broader context of John, this passage highlights divine love through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of salvation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about salvation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of John.

Historical Context

The historical context of the late first century during increasing tension between synagogue and church provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The late first-century Jewish-Christian tensions and Hellenistic thought would have shaped how the original audience understood salvation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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